The Elevate Scholarship Program, a joint initiative by the International News Media Association (INMA) and the Google News Initiative, has been established to support early to mid-career news media professionals.
The primary objective of this scholarship is to accelerate the professional development of individuals from underrepresented backgrounds within the news media industry.
The program was conceived based on the recognition of the immense value that diverse perspectives bring to the news industry.
Fostering diversity for a stronger news industry
It encompasses diversity across various demographics, including ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, disabilities, access to higher education, and more.
By fostering inclusivity, the program aims to strengthen the future of the news business.
The Elevate Scholarship seeks candidates who are committed to advancing the news industry while striving to embrace global best practices.
Through this initiative, INMA aims to equip emerging talents with a robust understanding of the news industry’s business dynamics, not only to propel their careers but also to infuse the industry with the essential talent required to address the complex challenges of today’s business landscape.
The organizers firmly believe that by removing barriers to equitable inclusion in news industry training and development, they can shatter the glass ceiling that often hinders professionals from underrepresented backgrounds.
This, in turn, will foster innovation and secure the future of news media.
Past recipients of the Elevate Scholarship have hailed from diverse regions worldwide, representing Africa, Asia, Latin America, North America, Europe, and the South Pacific.
To qualify for the Elevate Scholarship, applicants must meet specific criteria, including active engagement in or aspiration to play a significant role in the business aspects of news media, belonging to an underrepresented or disadvantaged group within their country, current employment with a news media company, holding a position below senior management, possessing less than 15 years of experience in the news media industry, and being under the age of 45.
Applicants should aspire to attain a top managerial position within a news media company.
Scholarship recipients will gain public recognition through official announcements by INMA, receive a certification of their scholarship, enjoy complimentary access to three INMA Master Classes, and receive a one-year complimentary INMA membership, providing unrestricted access to the association’s global community.
Individuals interested in applying for the Elevate Scholarship can submit their applications directly or nominate a colleague for the scholarship. The application deadline is October 6, 2023.
